Jack Black Comes a-Knocking in "Bernie" Trailer

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Richard Linklater made Jack Black a star with "School of Rock," but since that breakthrough, both men have had trouble returning to those delirious heights. Now the duo has reunited for a much darker comedy.

"Bernie" stars Black as a small-town mortician who befriends a nastiest, wealthy widow, played by Shirley MacLaine. After the pair become constant companions, the story takes a dark turn when she first goes missing, and then it's learned she's been dead for months.

Skip Hollandsworth co-wrote the film, which is based on an article he wrote for Texas Monthly about a true story. The film includes interviews from the folks who lived in the town where the mystery actually unfolded. Here's the official synopsis:

In the tiny, rural town of Carthage, TX, assistant funeral director Bernie Tiede was one of the town’s most beloved residents. He taught Sunday school, sang in the church choir and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Everyone loved and appreciated Bernie, so it came as no surprise when he befriended Marjorie Nugent, an affluent widow who was as well known for her sour attitude as her fortune. Bernie frequently traveled with Marjorie and even managed her banking affairs. Marjorie quickly became fully dependent on Bernie and his generosity and Bernie struggled to meet her increasing demands. Bernie continued to handle her affairs, and the townspeople went months without seeing Marjorie. The people of Carthage were shocked when it was reported that Marjorie Nugent had been dead for some time, and Bernie Tiede was being charged with the murder.

"Bernie" opens Arpil 27.

Published at 11:04 AM EST on Mar 1, 2012 | Updated at 2:40 PM EDT on May 30, 2012